Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils. If you have tonsillitis, your tonsils will probably be swollen and sore. It’s most common in children but anyone can have it.

What causes tonsillitis

The tonsils are glands at both sides of the back of your throat that help protect you against infection. Tonsillitis is usually caused by a virus, or occasionally by bacteria, and often follows a cold.

You can’t be immunised against tonsillitis so you can’t prevent it, although good hygiene can help. You can have it more than once.

There may be other cold symptoms, such as a runny nose, cough or sore eyes. Younger children may have nausea, vomiting or stomach pain. They may be unusually fussy and drool a lot because they can’t swallow.

Not every sore throat is due to tonsillitis.

Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker to get advice on when to seek medical attention.

Surgery

Some people who have recurring bouts of tonsillitis will be offered surgery to remove their tonsils. The operation is known as a tonsillectomy.

People who have a tonsillectomy need a general anaesthetic, and often stay in hospital overnight. There is a risk of heavy bleeding after the operation. It doesn't prevent sore throats coming back. Some people have a lot of pain afterwards, and it can take up to two weeks to recover.

You should talk to your doctor or ear, nose and throat specialist about whether a tonsillectomy is likely to help you.